James & Kristen’s DIY Wedding Weekender

How do you get to know someone new? There are many ways, but an 800km walk across northern Spain seemed to do the trick for James and Kristen. They met on day one of their trip and trekked together the entire way, falling for each other somewhere along the Camino de Santiago trail. “We had gotten to know each other pretty well and still liked each other despite how smelly we were!” Kristen laughs.

Scheduling the wedding for Easter Saturday meant that friends from far-flung places could make a weekend of it and these two knew just the spot – a picturesque property in Mirboo North. Owned by Kristen’s family, the undulating hills and view made for a scenic ceremony and with their overnight visitors setting up camp, the tent-dotted hills became something of a festival ground – homemade bunting, balloons and all!

This resourceful pair took it upon themselves to DIY the whole shebang – and what a job they did! When it came to photography though, that was one for the professionals. Engaging the talented duo behind She Takes Pictures He Makes Films, James and Kristen both agreed it was one of their best decisions. “Lucy and Alastair were amazing!” they share. “We wanted to make sure we remembered the day for what it was and didn’t want to spend hours posing for photos away from out family and friends.”

Though they opted to camp out under the stars like their guests, these newlyweds took it up a notch with a luxe, cozy bell tent. We love a good glamp!

Apart from Kristen's stunning bouq by Canterbury Road Flower Gallery, these DIY darlings opted to take care of all other arrangements with their favourite native blooms.

Delighted to find a wedding dress with pockets, Kristen was a picture of elegance in a tea-length Carla Zampatti creation, with the gentlemanly James by her side in Ted Baker.

Tom Collins Caravan Bar came to the rescue refreshment-wise, mixing the signature cocktails James and Kristen chose for the day. Did somebody say Blackberry Brambles…?

When it came to catering, James and Kristen called in some of their fave food trucks, namely Happy Camper Pizzas and Dhaba Curry Truck, both of which received rave reviews from their guests!

A teacher by trade, some of James’ students wrote and illustrated a helpful (and hilarious) handbook of sorts – ‘How to be a good husband.’ Rather than having a guest book, our newlyweds carried on the theme, asking their friends and fam for their own words of wisdom!

A combination of homemade bundt cakes and bakery treats made for a pretty sweet dessert spread!

As if we weren’t already smitten enough with this wedding, these snaps of James and Kristen planting a tree together have melted our hearts just a little. “We wanted something to remember the day with that would be lasting.” Kristen tells us, "and we are happy to report that the tree is still going strong, 10 months on!"

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